Article Text
Abstract
Short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection and tearing (SUNCT) syndrome is a rare form of primary headache disorder, although secondary causes, particularly posterior fossa abnormalities, are well known. We report a case of SUNCT syndrome secondary to a prolactinoma. Administration of dopamine agonists led to complete resolution of the SUNCT attacks. This case, together with other similar case reports in the literature, highlight the importance of excluding a diagnosis of pituitary adenoma in all suspected cases of SUNCT syndrome, especially as the headache can precede more classical pituitary symptoms by a considerable period of time. Clinicians managing patients with suspected SUNCT syndrome should elicit a history of symptoms associated with pituitary neoplasms, perform a magnetic resonance imaging scan of the brain and pituitary, and screen for serum hormonal abnormalities.
- headache
- SUNCT syndrome
- pituitary neoplasm
- prolactinoma
- ACTH, adrenocorticotropic hormone
- fMRI, functional magnetic resonance imaging
- FSH, follicle stimulating hormone
- GH, growth hormone
- LH, lutenising hormone
- SUNCT, short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection and tearing
- TSH, thyroid stimulating hormone